Alexander MacKenzie
Sir Alexander Mackenzie was a Scottish explorer and fur trader known for accomplishing the first crossing of North America in 1793.
Explorer
1764
March 12, 1820
56
Isle of Lewis, Outer Hebrides, Scotland
Sir Alexander Mackenzie, a Scottish explorer and fur trader, is renowned for being the first individual to traverse North America in 1793. He is also the author of the acclaimed book, “Voyages from Montreal Through the Continent of North America to the Frozen and Pacific Oceans.” Among his other significant accomplishments are reaching the Arctic Ocean as the first European and setting up trading posts in what is now Canada. Mackenzie’s explorations and findings were instrumental in the investigation and growth of the Canadian Northwest.